Things To Do
in Cáceres
Cáceres is a small riverside town in the Urabá region of Colombia, known for its relaxed pace and lush tropical scenery. The town sits along a winding river and is surrounded by banana plantations, rainforest, and rural farms. Afro-Colombian cultural influences color the food, music, and markets you encounter in the streets.
Visitors come to unwind in a rural Caribbean setting, enjoy river views, and connect with friendly locals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional Colombian breakfast at a local café, savoring arepas and freshly brewed coffee. After breakfast, wander through the cobblestone streets of Cáceres' historic center, taking in the stunning colonial architecture and vibrant murals. Visit the charming Plaza de Bolívar, where you can enjoy the morning sun while observing the daily life of locals.
In the afternoon, explore the Museo de Arte Moderno, which showcases contemporary Colombian art and provides insight into local culture. Afterward, indulge in a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling regional dishes like bandeja paisa. Take a stroll through the picturesque Parque Principal to relax and enjoy the lush greenery.
As evening falls, head to a lively local bar to experience the vibrant nightlife of Cáceres. Sample traditional cocktails made from local spirits, while enjoying live music or dance performances. End your day by taking a serene walk along the river, reflecting on your experiences in this beautiful town.
Begin your day by visiting the bustling local market, where you can experience the colors and flavors of Cáceres. Browse through stalls selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies while chatting with friendly vendors. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste fresh juices and typical snacks as you immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.
After the market, take part in a cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare traditional Colombian dishes using fresh ingredients. Engage with the chef, who will share stories behind the recipes and the cultural significance of each dish. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch, sharing your meal with fellow participants.
As the sun sets, join a guided cultural tour, exploring the folklore and traditions of the region. Listen to captivating stories of the town's history and its people, learning about local legends and customs. Conclude the evening with a traditional dance performance, allowing you to see the rich cultural heritage of Cáceres come to life.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-10 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short trip) | $3-6 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed, small-town vibe with river scenery
- Friendly locals and approachable price point
- Limited nightlife and dining options compared to larger cities
- Fewer direct international flight connections
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está…?" - Where is…?
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
- "Soy vegetariano/a" - I am vegetarian
- "No entiendo" - I don’t understand
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Cáceres
Visit one of these nice places.
A vantage point along the river offering sunset silhouettes of palm trees and passing boats.
Colorful colonial walls, arched doorways, and shaded courtyards ideal for street photography.
Covered market corridors with local vendors, vibrant fabrics, and everyday life shots.
Pedestrian bridges over the river provide long exposure opportunities with water and sky dynamics.
Food in Cáceres
Cáceres Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cornmeal arepa served plain or with hogao; a common accompaniment to many meals.
Must-Try!
Fried river fish with rice and fried green plantains; a staple fisherman’s dish in the area.
Hearty fish stew with tubers and vegetables, served with rice.
A generous platter featuring beans, rice, plantain, meat, and avocado; portions reflect local generosity.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market offering fresh produce, fish, plantains, yuca, herbs, and prepared snacks from local vendors.
Empanadas, arepas, patacones, and frituras common along main streets; great for a quick, cheap bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly greetings such as 'Buenos días' or 'Hola' are common; a handshake is typical; in informal settings a cheek kiss among close acquaintances may occur.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in small communities or markets.
Relaxed pace; plan buffers for travel and social visits; casual dress is acceptable in most places.
Respect private property and avoid loud behavior late at night in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Cáceres
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated if service is good and no service charge is included. Small tips (COP 1,000–2,000) are common for cafe staff and porters.
Cash (COP) and cards are widely accepted in town restaurants and shops; some small vendors prefer cash. ATMs are available but may have limited international withdrawal options.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Smaller chance of heavy rain, more comfortable outdoor exploration; expect sunny or partly cloudy days and warm temperatures.
Higher humidity and frequent showers; carry a light rain jacket and quick-dry clothing; lush scenery is at its peak during this period.
Cáceres at Night
Hiking in Cáceres
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, well-marked loops through tropical vegetation; suitable for a half-day hike with birdwatching opportunities.
Water-side path along the riverbanks with shaded sections and viewpoints toward the water.
Airports
How to reach Cáceres by plane.
Regional airport serving the Urabá region with domestic flights; reachable by road from Cáceres in a few hours depending on weather and road conditions.
Major international gateway with frequent domestic connections; from Cáceres, a combination of road and air travel is typical for longer trips.
Smaller urban airport serving domestic flights and regional routes; convenient for short hops to nearby towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong cultural presence in local markets, music, and cuisine; hospitable and community-oriented.
Residents involved in agriculture and fishing; many generations living in nearby settlements.
Diverse blends of ancestry reflected in daily life, food, and language.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across town and region; local games and informal matches are common on weekends.
Played in schools, community centers, and local courts; casual leagues and pickup games appear in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cáceres.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose plant-based options such as beans, corn-based dishes, fruit, salads, and vegetable sides; ask for no meat in stews and be mindful of fish-based broths.